Few injuries are as terrifying and life-altering as a brain injury, capable of reshaping one’s personality, disrupting mobility, work, and life enjoyment, and, in severe cases, leading to fatalities. The insidious nature of the damage can take months or even years to fully manifest.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can stem from various incidents, including motor vehicle accidents (motorcycle, ATV, car), sports-related mishaps (bicycle, skateboard, roller skate, snowboard, ski), slips and falls, work accidents, and physical altercations.
Despite the protective encasement of our brains within the hard shell of our skulls, the soft nature of this organ makes it vulnerable to damage when subjected to sudden blows or impacts to the head. Resultant damage may encompass bruising, bleeding, swelling, over-stretching of nerve fibers (diffuse axonal injury), shock or pressure wave force (as seen in veterans surviving explosions), displaced or penetrating fractures of the skull, and severe shaking, such as in cases of Shaken Baby Syndrome.
The effects of a brain injury can be profound, ranging from mild symptoms like headaches, confusion, and dizziness to more serious consequences like physical disabilities, seizures, persistent nausea, speech problems, emotional and behavioral issues, changes in personality, and, tragically, death.
Recovery for a brain injury victim is often a protracted journey, with some never fully reclaiming their former selves. This poses significant emotional, physical, and financial challenges for victims and their families, including the risk of rehabilitation needs outlasting insurance coverage. For many, the only recourse to secure necessary care is by filing a personal injury claim against the responsible parties.
If you or a loved one has experienced a brain injury, seeking guidance from a personal injury attorney specializing in brain injury claims is advisable. To pursue a negligence claim, the attorney must establish that another party’s actions or inactions played a role in the accident and resulting injuries. They will strive to secure full and fair compensation, covering short- and long-term needs, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional damages, and potentially punitive damages.
Recovering from a brain injury demands time, financial resources, and the support of a medical and rehabilitative expert team. A knowledgeable brain injury attorney can assist in ensuring access to this support for as long as necessary.